Mesalands held their commencement ceremony last Friday

Mesalands Community College held their commencement ceremony on May 10, 2013, at the Tucumcari Convention Center. For the first time at Mesalands, the College had one commencement ceremony for students graduating with an Associate’s Degree, a Certificate, or a General Education Development (GED®) diploma.

Donald C. Schutte, Attorney at Law in Tucumcari delivered the commencement speech and commended the graduates for their achievements.

“We are here because of the students. We are here to celebrate their desire, their accomplishment of their goals. We are here to celebrate with you as you receive your diplomas, your certificates, and your GED®. Never underestimate desire,” Schutte said. “I’m aware of two tremendous examples of that commitment and that desire. Above all other things that desire was there. Tara Jimenez and Nikki (Dolores) Vasquez, are two such examples of tremendous commitment and desire to overcome obstacles. It has not been an easy road for you, but you had the desire and you made the commitment to achieve the results we have here today.”

Donald C. Schutte, Attorney at Law in Tucumcari, delivered the commencement speech.

Graduate Megan Williamson gave the student graduation address. Williamson had the opportunity to graduate with her Mother, Julie Keck on Friday. Both received their Associate of Arts Degree. Earlier this year, Keck and Williamson were also both selected to the 2013 All-State New Mexico Academic Team. Williamson shared the importance of these milestones in her heart-felt speech.

“It’s not very often that a mom and daughter get to graduate together. But I think that’s what makes this such an honor today. Thank you Julie Keck for the constant challenges that you have always set up for me. Thank you for all of the love and encouragement that you bestowed upon me. The greatest honor I think of while being here at Mesalands was having you by my side and graduating with you today. I’m truly proud of you,” Williamson said. “To all of you that sit before me congratulations! You have completed what you have come here to do, whether it was a GED®, a certificate, or an Associate’s Degree. It’s yours and no one else can ever change that. Congratulations!”

Music was provided by the Tucumcari High School Band. A reception in honor of the graduates and their guests followed commencement.